Installing 220V for Welder Question

[padronanniversary]

I plan on running a Miller 252 in my garage. Looks like I'll need roughly 40-45 Amps.

I assume this puts me in the 6-3 Romex range for copper with a 50 Amp breaker ?

Is this correct, or can I run 8 gauge ? Just want to make sure I have it sized appropriately.

Run will be about 30 feet from panel to outlet.

 

[lametec]

As long as the circuit is used for (and labeled as such) the welder only you can use 8 ga wire. Use a 60 amp breaker.

Edit: I should add that this circuit will be okay for your current welder. If you upgrade to one higher current requirement and/or higher duty cycle, the circuit may no longer be adequate.

 

[nate379]

Can actually use 10 gauge for 50 amp on a welder outlet. Sorry I can't can quote the NEC as to where off the top of head, just remember reading it.

I still wired my outlets with #6 wire and the 2 outlets are about 3ft from my panel.

 

[Buckgnarly]

Can actually use 10 gauge for 50 amp on a welder outlet. Sorry I can't can quote the NEC as to where off the top of head, just remember reading it.

I still wired my outlets with #6 wire and the 2 outlets are about 3ft from my panel.

I may be wrong, but I think you are right. I think it has to do with the length of time the welder will be pulling that current. Short runs unlike a dryer, appliances, etc.
I think I used 8 for about a 1' run anyway.

 

[lametec]

For your reference:

 

[Keep]

Save some cash. Put the outlet as close to the box as you can, then go buy a 50ft welder extension cord. Should run you about $65 for the extension. Makes it easy to move the welder around.

 

[sberry]

Can actually use 10 gauge for 50 amp on a welder outlet.

This is actually dependent on the machine connected to it, the 252 calls for 8. Technically if using Romex it may even be 6 but a small garage will never crank it up hard enough to make it an issue. I think it will spray arc 045 wire, would probably melt the factory stinger off,,, ha.